Many manufacturers of medical devices now design products that can be integrated with wireless technology. While this can be convenient for sending and receiving data, the defective medical device lawyers at Ferrer, Poirot & Wansbrough explain this technology may also compromise the safety and security of the device.

For example, infusion pumps deliver small amounts of medication to patients over an extended period of time. The amount of drug being delivered can be altered wirelessly in certain units, which may present serious safety risks if a unit is ever hacked.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team identified cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the Symbiq Infusion System. This prompted the agency to instruct facilities using the devices to switch to alternative infusion pump systems immediately. The FDA also offered tips on how to safely make the transition to another system.

While no injuries or deaths have been reported , not all problems with defective medical products are discovered before an incident occurs.

At Ferrer, Poirot & Wansbrough, we understand the risks defective medical products pose to patients, and we are hopeful the warnings issued regarding the Symbiq Infusion System can prevent patients from serious harm.